Fall of Wad Madani fuels criticism of army
Shock at RSF's rapid takeover of the capital of breadbasket state
The fall of Wad Madani has sent shockwaves—political, social, and humanitarian—throughout Sudan, including growing calls for a coup to oust the current leadership of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF).
Although Sudan’s military has suffered previous defeats at the hands of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), this one took place in the nation’s Nile Valley heartland, and with breathtaking speed. It happened only a day after the army had claimed a victory over the RSF on the outskirts of Wad Madani, raising expectations for victory.
Instead, the RSF stormed into the city, which is the capital of Jezira State, on the morning of December 18. Yesterday, the RSF consolidated their control over the city, amid growing fears that they could continue their offensive toward other cities.
In disbelief over these events, many Sudanese have embraced a narrative of betrayal, claiming that the army abandoned the defense of the city and didn’t put up a fight. In fact, the a…